701-0478-00L Introduction to Physical Oceanography
Semester | Spring Semester 2015 |
Lecturers | M. Münnich, T. Frölicher, G.‑K. Plattner |
Periodicity | yearly recurring course |
Language of instruction | English |
Courses
Number | Title | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
701-0478-00 V | Introduction to Physical Oceanography | 2 hrs |
| M. Münnich, T. Frölicher, G.‑K. Plattner | ||||||
701-0478-00 U | Introduction to Physical Oceanography | 1 hrs |
| M. Münnich, T. Frölicher, G.‑K. Plattner |
Catalogue data
Abstract | The lecture gives an overview over physical properties, flows and transport phenomena in stratified water bodies (reservoirs, lakes and the oceans). The focus is the oceans, their currents and the role of the seas in the global climate system. Those completing the course are able to interpret basic flow equations and apply them to phenomema. |
Objective | Students are able to - apply the basic conservation principles of physics to various bodies of water. - explain the singularities of various natural flow systems. - apply closed solutions and simple evaluation procedures to characterise flow and transport. - present an overview of the mechanical flow properties of environmental flow systems. - describe the role of the oceans in the global climate system. |
Content | • Review of governing equations (Navier-Stokes equation, Coriolis force, scaling) • Waves in Fluids (surface waves, internal waves, Rossby waves) • Stratification and mixing in lakes and the oceans (molecular diffusion, Reynold decomposition, turbulent transport, turbulent closure, boundary layers) • Wind-driven ocean currents (Ekman transport, Sverdrub ballance, westerly boundary currents) • Density-driven ocean currents (thermocline theory, deep water formation) • Oceans and climate (El Nino, Ice Ages) |
Lecture notes | In lieu of a script excerpts from publications lecture books are handed out. |
Literature | • Seawater: Its Composition, Properties and Behaviour (Open University) • Waves, Tides & Shallow-Water Processes (Open University) • Ocean Circulation (Open University) • Atmosphere, Ocean and Climate Dynamics (J. Marshall, A. Plumb) • Atmosphere-Ocean Dynamics (A.Gill) |
Prerequisites / Notice | PDFs of the open university books can be obtained free of charge through ScienceDirect. |
Performance assessment
Performance assessment information (valid until the course unit is held again) | |
Performance assessment as a semester course | |
ECTS credits | 3 credits |
Examiners | M. Münnich, T. Frölicher, G.-K. Plattner |
Type | session examination |
Language of examination | English |
Repetition | The performance assessment is offered every session. Repetition possible without re-enrolling for the course unit. |
Mode of examination | written 60 minutes |
Written aids | Simple, non-programmable calculator. One single-sided A4 page of handwritten notes and formulas. |
This information can be updated until the beginning of the semester; information on the examination timetable is binding. |
Learning materials
Main link | Moodle Kurs |
Learning environment | Kurswiki |
Only public learning materials are listed. |
Groups
No information on groups available. |
Restrictions
There are no additional restrictions for the registration. |
Offered in
Programme | Section | Type | |
---|---|---|---|
Earth Sciences Bachelor | Major Electives | W | |
Environmental Engineering Master | Minors | W | |
Environmental Sciences Bachelor | Biogeochemistry | W |